Impact of Non-Science A-Levels on Medical School Performance
Author Information
Author(s): Janet Yates, Jennifer Smith, David James, Eamonn Ferguson
Primary Institution: University of Nottingham
Hypothesis
Does studying a non-science subject for A-level predict achievement in medical school?
Conclusion
The study found no evidence that the choice of A-level subjects influenced medical course performance.
Supporting Evidence
- No significant differences in performance were found between students with and without a non-science A-level.
- Higher A-level tariff point averages were associated with better performance.
- Demographic factors like gender and fee status showed some predictive value.
Takeaway
This study looked at whether taking a non-science subject in high school helps students do better in medical school, and it found that it doesn't really make a difference.
Methodology
A retrospective cohort study analyzing pre-admission data and course performance of 164 medical students.
Potential Biases
The study may not account for the performance of students who were excluded for not progressing normally.
Limitations
The study was limited to a single cohort at one university, which may affect generalizability.
Participant Demographics
{"gender":{"male":71,"female":93},"ethnicity":{"white":117,"non-white":42},"age_group":{"younger":147,"older":17},"fee_status":{"home_or_EU":143,"overseas":21}}
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.001
Statistical Significance
p < 0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website